As we get older, we not only focus on longevity but also on the quality of life that we get to live. Nutrition and eating well can be a factor that can play a key role in our quality of life in direct and indirect ways.
Eating well can have many definitions, but the centerfold should be attributed to having a well-rounded nutritional diet that meets individual needs. This includes getting a variety of different foods and food groups throughout the day to ensure the body is being fueled appropriately.
We have collaborated with our customer partners at Edencrest to put together some basic nutrition tips to focus on when caring for seniors and identified some key benefits to what a nutritionally balanced diet can provide.
Here are some of those tips and benefits:
Nutrition Tips
- Make sure to serve a variety of foods from each food group.
- Include all three macronutrients (protein, carbohydrates and fat) while also providing enough micronutrients from fruits and vegetables. (This is best done by serving a rainbow!)
- Incorporate whole grains, nuts, fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables, lean meats and fish to help limit sodium and saturated fat and also reduce added sugars.
- Serve enough protein to maintain lean muscle mass and try spreading protein throughout the day.
- Make sure everyone is staying hydrated! Help your seniors each keep a water bottle nearby throughout the day.
- To help with hydration, include low- or fat-free milk and/or 100% juices.
- Encourage an active lifestyle to maintain lean muscle mass and bone mass.
- Promote food holidays that can help encourage consuming fruits and vegetables, such as National Blueberry Day on July 8, National Avocado Day on July 31 and International Eat an Apple Day in September.
- Regularly gather feedback to make sure you are incorporating some classic favorites as well as a few fun new dishes! This helps ensure everyone is enjoying what is being served and getting exposed to fun new recipes!
Benefits of Good Nutrition
- Stronger bones with improved mobility and reduced risk of fractures.
- Better heart health and lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Lower risk of type 2 diabetes and cancer.
- Prevention of dehydration.
- Improved brain function.
For the article that inspired this collaboration, click here.
